2024 has proven to be a challenging year for many in our community, marked by job losses, financial hardship, and ongoing uncertainty. As the effects of COVID-19 continue to linger, now coupled with a cost-of-living crisis and recession, many whānau are facing tough choices—often between putting food on the table or keeping the power on. It’s a harsh reality that no one should have to face.
WISE’s Pyjama Drive has been a longstanding effort, and this year, it highlighted the enduring impact of the pandemic on whānau within our Healthy Homes Initiative. For some tamariki who lack even basic items like pyjamas, these donations make a world of difference. Some children have resorted to sleeping in their school uniforms, so receiving warm, comfortable pyjamas is more than just a simple gift—it’s a necessity.
This year, over 1,700 pairs of pyjamas were donated, fewer than in previous years, which reflects the current economic pressures. Despite this, the majority of donations were new, demonstrating the incredible generosity of our community.
Our team focused on areas in Taranaki most in need, and we were thrilled to distribute pyjamas to the entire Manaia Primary School, where each student received two pairs. We also provided two pairs each to every student at Avon School in Stratford, the Stratford Teen Parent Unit for their pepi, Inglewood Kohanga, and Uruti Primary School. Additional donations were made to Moturoa Primary School, Busy Bees Childcare Centre in Waitara, the Barnardo’s South Taranaki team, and the Waitara Foodbank.
The impact of this initiative was felt by many, with students expressing their gratitude: “Thank you for the pj’s. All of Avon loves them. I love them too, my favourite is the basketball ones. I am grateful because they are warm. When I get them on, they make me sleep better. I like them because they keep me warm at night.” – Avon School student.
“I am very grateful for my new pj’s. I was very warm last night, and my mum and dad were jealous when they saw my pj’s.” – Avon School student.
A special thanks goes out to the Taranaki businesses that served as drop-off points for our PJ drive: The Hub Café, Taranaki Chamber of Commerce, The Junction, Carefirst Westown, Merrilands and Moturoa, Location Homes, Professionals Real Estate in Waitara, Mackays Pharmacy in Stratford, Columbus Coffee, Nexans Bell Block, and McDonald Real Estate locations across Taranaki.
We also extend our deepest appreciation to the community groups that supported this initiative: Soroptimist New Plymouth, Durham Women’s Institute Inglewood, St Pius Primary School, BNZ Staff, Nexans Staff, OMV Staff, Todd Energy Staff, and the many anonymous donors who contributed.
Thanks to the kindness and support of our incredible community, tamariki and pepi across Taranaki are staying warmer and cozier this winter.
He aroha whakatō, he aroha ka puta mai – If kindness is sown, then kindness you shall receive
